Complete coverage of the Angels minor leagues

This ‘N That – April 16, 2008

With second baseman Howie Kendrick sidelined by a hamstring strain and reserve outfielder Reggie Willits getting very little playing time, the Angels might send Willits to triple-A Salt Lake to get some at-bats and recall a player such as Brandon Wood or Matt Brown to give them some infield coverage until Kendrick returns.

I asked Angels farm director Abe Flores what I could tell people about the rehab status of Hank Conger, Ryan Mount, Matt Sweeney and Chris Pettit. He said all four should be ready to play no later than the end of the first half. The Angels are usually tight-lipped about such matters, so that’s actually more than I expected to hear and I suspect some of those guys will be activated sooner than mid-June. It’s also good news about Pettit, as early reports had him out for the year with a broken foot. Abe said they’d know more about Chris once he starts his rehab at Tempe but for now it looks like he might be active by the time the second half starts.

The minor-league season is two weeks old, but the Angels’ top draft pick in 2005, catcher Hank Conger, remains at their extended spring camp in Arizona. Conger is one month into a rehabilitation program to treat a torn labrum in his right shoulder.

Conger is hitting without discomfort but is only allowed to do light throwing so far. The Angels are optimistic that surgery will not be necessary and Conger will be able to start his season in early June.

“With Dr. (Lewis) Yocum, surgery is never the first option,” said Angels director of player development Abe Flores, referring to the Angels’ team orthopedist.

Chris Bootcheck made his second rehab appearance last night, throwing the last two innings of the Quakes’ loss at Bakersfield. Boot gave up an unearned run on a hit and two walks, while striking out three.

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